Sadly, the Cardinals’ season ended earlier than we all wanted it to. So close and yet so far from the playoffs! About 2 weeks after the season ends, the fall United Cardinals Bloggers Roundtable begins. The bloggers who are interested in participating in the roundtable pose a question to the other bloggers who are participating, and they then respond. After all of the answers are obtained, we are to take our question and the responses and put them in a blog post. Yesterday was the day for me to post my question. And since I didn’t remember that it was the day for me to post my question until the middle of the day, I only got four responses. Either I missed the window of time that would have gotten the most responses, or no one wanted to think about the ramifications of my question. So here was my question:

As we all know, Yadier Molina will be retiring after the 2020 season. 😭 Carson Kelly was once thought to be the heir apparent, but I think he has lost his luster due to his lackluster hitting. Francisco Pena became Yadi’s backup this season and did a fine job. Andrew Knizner is highly recommended but is still in the minors.

So who will replace Yadi in 2021? Will it be one of the aforementioned players? Or will the front office go outside the organization and sign a free agent or trade for a front line catcher?

I know that Yadi said he’s retiring after 2020 but, if he’s still productive, I have a hard time seeing him actually walking away. But let’s say he does walk away. I think the answer to who replaces him depends almost entirely on what kind of trade offers the Cardinals receive for Kelly or Knizner. I think it’s also important to remember that most catchers aren’t like Yadi, they typically take a lot more time to develop and adapt to the major leagues than any other position. I think giving up on Carson Kelly would be premature. Ideally you could have both Carson Kelly and Andrew Knizner on the team and 2021 and let them split time and see who runs with the job but that’s becoming increasingly difficult to see happening as neither have much left to prove in the minor leagues and we’re looking two years down the road.

My guess is that one of the two gets traded and the other serves as Yadi’s backup until he retires. They’ll likely sign a veteran catcher to go along with them and make it somewhat of a 60/40 timeshare. I have a really hard time seeing this organization spending top dollar for a catcher.

That seems like a long time from now, and if the Cardinals don’t have another deep postseason run in them before Yadi retires it will be a shame. Like most, I’m not sure that Yadi will retire when his current deal expires, but let’s suppose he does.

To Adam’s point, it wouldn’t make sense to give up on Kelly if they don’t get comparable value. That being said, I have serious reservations with what the club has done to his development. They’ve made it an uphill battle for sure. Knizner isn’t there yet, but if he has a great first half, his bat will be ready for the major league challenge. I’d imagine he’d still have some rough edges to smooth out defensively, but he can really hit.

It’s unusual for a team to have two legitimate catching prospects, so I doubt they’d spend significant money or resources on an external option.

I’d put my money on Knizner backing up Kelly at the start of 2021. I don’t think either one checks all the boxes by any means, but they might combine to do it. If the Cardinals would stop playing a man down by refusing to use the backup catcher unless absolutely necessary, the two could make for a really solid combo.

Also, they’ve got so much time and energy invested in Kelly that I think he gets a little more time to prove he can play. They aren’t likely to get anything better from a journeyman catcher, and guys like Cervelli or Russell Martin don’t hit the market often, and when they do the price tag is heavily inflated.

The final response was from the UCB’s fearless leader, Daniel Shoptaw, and you can find his blog posts here at CardsConclave.com:

When Yadi goes, the Cards may be forced to run that combo, Dennis. With a creative manager and someone that doesn’t train for 174 games taking up all the time, I could easily see some sort of mix-and-match situation going after Molina leaves. I believe they’ll have to do that because the odds of finding the next great catcher immediately are really slim.

However, if Molina is going to play at this rate–and there’s no guarantee that if he doesn’t slow down 2020 is his last year, as Adam pointed out–I still think Kelly’s skills will be eroded by the lack of playing time. I’m wondering–and Colin would know better than I on this–if we might not see Andrew Knizner as the starter in 2021 or 2022 backed up by Dennis Ortega. I can’t believe Kelly will get 100 or less AB over the next two years and still be effective when he gets the full time spot.

Thanks to you gentlemen for your responses! Speaking of Yadi, I’m sure you’ve heard by now that he was selected as the winner of the Roberto Clemente Award today. Yadi was Mrs. Clemente’s personal choice to win the award (she is on the selection committee), and the fan vote for Yadi was overwhelming. Yadi won the award for his work in Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria hit and devastated most of the island. Yadi could have been one of those guys who just contributed a lot of money and had others do the grunt work, but Yadi hit the ground running and distributed food and water himself, plus he helped repair people’s homes as well. That shows what kind of character Yadi really has. You can read more about Yadi’s work in Puerto Rico at the link here: https://www.digitalpublications-mlb.com/157005/157249/186082/Cardinals-Gameday-Magazine-2018-Issue-1/

Yadi is the fifth Cardinal to win the Roberto Clemente Award, the most of any team in Major League Baseball. The other Cardinals winners were Lou Brock (1975), Ozzie Smith (1985), Albert Pujols (2008), and Carlos Beltran (2013). This shows that not only are Cardinals players great on the field but off the field as well.

That’s all for right now! Thanks as always for reading! See you next time!

The final week of the Cardinals’ 2018 regular season schedule starts today. There are 6 games remaining in the schedule, and they’re all against National League Central rivals. The Cards play the Brewers starting tonight (9/24) through Wednesday. After a day off on Thursday, the Cards travel to Chicago to finish out the regular season against the hated Cubbies. If the stormy weather predicted for tomorrow occurs, however, the game may be played on Thursday instead since both teams have the day off.

The Cards swept the Giants this weekend in dramatic fashion. On Saturday, Yadi hit a 2 run homer to tie the game in the 8th inning. We got two innings of bonus baseball until Tyler O’Neill hit his first ever walk-off home run. The celebration that ensued included a shredding of O’Neill’s jersey, which showed off O’Neill’s magnificent physique. O Canada! Lady baseball fans all over the country had to look for ways to cool themselves off after seeing that, myself included. Miles Mikolas pitched a masterful game on Sunday – he didn’t give up a single walk. Miles has to be in consideration for the NL Cy Young award. He is one of John Mozeliak’s best acquisitions.

The four finalists for the wild card slots have very similar records, which could make for a very interesting finish to the season. Anthony Castrovince of MLB.com did the math and outlined the various scenarios, and you can read that article here. Tickets for a possible tiebreaker game on October 1 go on sale tomorrow morning at 10 AM Central Standard Time for only $10 each, and you can get tickets at cardinals.com or call (314) 345-9000. You can also go to either one of those sources for NLDS series and wild-card game tickets as well.

Hopefully, Kolten Wong’s balking hamstrings will be better soon and he’ll be able to play again. Yairo Munez has a hot bat, but his defense is lacking. Harrison Bader is a great player, but he can’t cover the middle outfield and the middle infield.

I’m excited for this final week of the regular season for the first time in a couple years, mostly because the playoffs are a possibility. The son and I are attending Wednesday evening’s game since it’s the last home game of the regular season. I would love to see the Cards win all 6 games, but I know that’s probably not possible. What I would really love to see, however, is the Cubs choking and the Cards win the division. A girl can dream, can’t she?

Since my last post, the Cardinals compiled a 6-5 record, including losing 3 out of 4 to the Dodgers. A vintage start by Adam Wainwright kept the Dodgers from sweeping the Cards. The Cards won both the Pittsburgh series and the Atlanta series. There are just 3 series to go until the end of the season. The Cards need to win all these series, which won’t be easy, considering that the last series is against the Cubs at Wrigley Field. Jose Martinez, however, should not be allowed to bat with the bases loaded. He strikes out every time. Matt Carpenter hasn’t hit a home run in a while, either, which is also worrisome. Perhaps the salsa should not have been available to the public until the season was over.

Did you buy tickets today for the wild-card game or the divisional series? I wanted to buy tickets, but I looked at my checkbook and decided that maybe I’d better not. With my luck, the wild-card game would be in the afternoon and I’d have to take a vacation day so I could go. I hope the game will be scheduled in the evening so I can watch it on TV.

Tomorrow starts the last homestand of the season! Where does the time go? I’ll be at the game tomorrow night so you might see me in Ford Plaza. The law firm I work at is treating us to a game in the Coca-Cola Scoreboard Plaza to celebrate the fiscal year end. I’ve never sat in that area before so it will be interesting seeing the game from that section. I’m still trying to decide if I want to go to one more home game this season or not. I can get bleacher seats pretty cheap on vividseats.com.

Here are all the details for this final homestand of the 2018 regular season. Remember, Saturday’s game has been moved to 12:05 PM. Hopefully, I’ll be posting details for the postseason!

ST. LOUIS, Mo., September 20, 2018 – The Cardinals are back at Busch after taking two of three games in Atlanta. The six-game homestand kicks off with a three-game weekend series against the San Francisco Giants (September 21-23) and concludes with three games versus the Milwaukee Brewers (September 24-26). The thirteenth and final homestand of the season is highlighted by Fan Appreciation Weekend and Ryan Ludwick’s Bud Bash event.

St. Louis Blues Theme Night: Celebrate #TeamSTL and kick off the St. Louis Blues 2018-19 season at Busch Stadium. With the purchase of a special Theme Ticket, fans will receive an exclusive Fredbird and Louie dual bobblehead. Come early for a pregame pep rally and a concert by The Funky Butt Brass Band! Theme Tickets are currently sold out. #CardsTheme

Summer Grant Ceremony: In an afternoon ceremony, Cardinals Care will distribute more than $178,000 to 85 area nonprofit groups that support local kids. A Cardinals player, executives and Fredbird will all take part in the afternoon event. #CardsCare

Cardinals en Español: Tonight’s game will be broadcast over the radio in Spanish by Polo Ascencio and Bengie Molina. The Spanish broadcast will air locally on WIJR 880 AM and be streamed via cardinals.com & the MLB.com At Bat mobile app. #STLCardenales or #SomosSTL

Artifact Spotlight: Before every Friday home game, the Cardinals Museum highlights artifacts in the collection not currently on display during a pregame presentation inside the Museum at 3:00 & 3:30. Today’s featured item relates to the club joining the National League in 1892. To purchase museum tickets, visit cardinals.com/museum. #CardsMuseum

Flashback Friday: Before every Friday home game at 4:00 p.m., the Cardinals Museum will host a presentation about Cardinals history or a museum-related topic from one of the Museum’s staff members, a former player or a visiting author. Today’s presentation will be led by former Cardinals pitcher Bob Tewksbury. To purchase museum tickets, visit cardinals.com/museum. #CardsMuseum

Boots at Busch Finals: 93.7 The Bull and the Cardinals present the Boots at Busch country concert series. Tonight’s final battle features Jordan McCants, Shotgun Creek, Miss E & The Rebels and Jessica Tipton. Gate 6 will open at 4:25 p.m. for the event. Performances begin at 4:45 p.m. in Ford Plaza. Specially-priced Boots at Busch tickets are currently sold out.

Cardinals Care Stadium Auction:Auction tables will be located inside the Cardinals Club, UMB Champions Club and Redbird Club for fans and collectors to obtain specialty Cardinals items while helping support the programs that Cardinals Care provides to youth in the community. #CardsCare

MLBPAA Auction: The MLB Players Alumni Association will conduct a silent auction by Gates 1 and 3 through the fifth inning. All proceeds will benefit Cardinals Care and the MLBPAA.

Saturday Signings at the Museum: Former Cardinals pitcher Bob Tewksbury will sign autographs at the Cardinals Museum from 9:00-11:00 a.m. Visit cardinals.com/museum for more information. #CardsMuseum

Congressional Award Statewide Ceremony: Bill DeWitt III and the Cardinals will host Congressional Award medalists from the state of Missouri in a postgame ceremony in Cunningham Corner.

Cardinals en Español: Today’s game will be broadcast over the radio in Spanish by Polo Ascencio and Bengie Molina. The Spanish broadcast will air locally on WIJR 880 AM and be streamed via cardinals.com & the MLB.com At Bat mobile app. #STLCardenales or #SomosSTL

MLBPAA Auction: The MLB Players Alumni Association will conduct a silent auction by Gate 1, Gate 3 and inside the Cardinals Club through the fifth inning. All proceeds will benefit Cardinals Care and the MLBPAA.

Reliving History: Join us for Reliving History with Miles Mikolas at the Cardinals Museum after the game at 6:00 p.m. Guests of this special event will enjoy a photo opportunity with the 2018 All-Star and a presentation featuring Mikolas and Cardinals executives discussing his career and how the Cardinals scouted Mikolas in Japan. To purchase tickets or for more information, visit cardinals.com/museum.

Cardinals en Español: Today’s game will be broadcast over the radio in Spanish by Polo Ascencio and Bengie Molina. The Spanish broadcast will air locally on WIJR 880 AM and be streamed via cardinals.com & the MLB.com At Bat mobile app. #STLCardenales or #SomosSTL

MLBPAA Auction: The MLB Players Alumni Association will conduct a silent auction by Gate 1, Gate 3 and inside the Cardinals Club through the fifth inning. All proceeds will benefit Cardinals Care and the MLBPAA.

College Theme Night #3: Take a break from the books and celebrate the start of the school year with College Night presented by WGU Missouri. For just $20, fans will receive a ticket to the game and an exclusive Cardinals quarter zip sweatshirt. To purchase tickets, visit cardinals.com/college. #CardsTheme

Groom’s Cake Dive: Witness the fun as 12 grooms-to-be dive headfirst into a multi-tiered wedding cake filled with special wedding-themed prizes. The 5th annual Groom’s Cake Dive presented by St. Louis Best Bridal will take place at approximately 6:30 p.m. in Budweiser Terrace.

Dream Weavers:Luke Weaver will host a group from Do The Right Thing for tonight’s game as part of his Dream Weavers player ticket program.

MLBPAA Auction: The MLB Players Alumni Association will conduct a silent auction by Gates 1 and 3 through the fifth inning. All proceeds will benefit Cardinals Care and the MLBPAA.

Ryan Ludwick Budweiser Bash Theme Event: Fans who purchase a special Bud Bash Theme Ticket will receive a limited-edition Ryan Ludwick bobblehead as we celebrate Cardinal fan favorites. VIP ticket-holders will also have access to a pregame autograph session with Ryan in the Budweiser Terrace. To purchase tickets, visit cardinals.com/budbash. #BudBash

Battle at Busch Finals: 105.7 The Point and the Cardinals present the Battle at Busch concert series. Tonight’s final battle features Postal Modern, HOOkiE, Joe Miller and Guerrilla Theory. Gate 6 will open at 4:50 p.m. for the event. Performances begin at 5:15 p.m. in Budweiser Terrace. Tickets are available for $5 to each Battle at Busch game at cardinals.com/battleatbusch.

High School Video Challenge Winners: The club will recognize students from Clayton High School during a pregame ceremony in recognition for their winning entry in the team’s High School Student Video Challenge. The students collaborated to write, develop and produce a short video featuring Ozzie Smith and Fredbird promoting the Cardinals and their high school. Fans can watch the students’ entry and the final feature video at cardinals.com/student.

Tsunami Waves:Carlos Martínez will host a group from St. Cecilia School for tonight’s game as part of his Tsunami Waves player ticket program.

Cardinals Care Stadium Auction:Auction tables will be located at Gates 1 and 3, inside the Cardinals Club, UMB Champions Club and Redbird Club for fans and collectors to obtain specialty Cardinals items while helping support the programs that Cardinals Care provides to youth in the community. #CardsCare

Ticket Voucher Giveaway: All fans entering with a ticket will receive a voucher good for a free ticket to a 2019 Cardinals regular season home game. #CardsPromo

Memphis Redbirds Theme Night: Celebrate the Memphis Redbirds 2017 PCL Championship at Busch Stadium! With the purchase of a special Theme Ticket, fans will take home a replica 2017 PCL Championship ring. To purchase tickets, visit cardinals.com/memphis. #CardsTheme

Cardinals Music Contest Winners: The club will recognize KT Clark, Nite Owl, Beth Huonker and Nate Hershey during a pregame ceremony in recognition for their winning entry in the team’s first ever music contest. The group collaborated to write, produce and perform the song “Cardinals Nation (Hearts are Pumpin’)”. Fans can listen to the song at cardinals.com/musiccontest. #CardsMusic

MLBPAA Auction: The MLB Players Alumni Association will conduct a silent auction by Gate 1, Gate 3 and inside the Cardinals Club through the fifth inning. All proceeds will benefit Cardinals Care and the MLBPAA.

Fans heading downtown for Cardinals games on September 21-26 will need to avoid the eastbound I-64 ramp to 11th Street, as MoDOT crews have closed the ramp as part of on-going repair work. The ramp will be closed throughout the Cardinals homestand. Drivers can use the 14th Street ramp or the 6th Street ramp to get into the downtown area.

In my last blog post, I mentioned that the Cardinals should take the interim tag off of Mike Shildt. I didn’t think they would do it the very next day! LOL! I should probably buy some Powerball tickets.

What an August the Cardinals had! They finished the month with 9 series wins, including sweeps of the Nationals, the Royals, and the Dodgers. Matt Carpenter and his magical salsa led the Cardinals into playoff contention. It was fun to watch Cardinals baseball again.

But then the calendar turned to September. All of a sudden, the bad habits from earlier in the season began returning. The batters had too many strikeouts and the pitchers allowed too many walks. Yadi Molina and Kolten Wong landed on the disabled list with hamstring strains (although Kolten has been activated). Jedd Gyorko landed on the DL with a groin strain. He has had to return to St. Louis for reassessment. The Cards miss Yadi and Jedd greatly. The Cards have only won 3 of the 8 games played in September. Did Matt Carpenter run out of the magic salsa? Matt should make a new batch when he returns to St. Louis.

Today’s game was interesting, however. The Rally Squirrel made a return appearance and the Cards scored 5 runs in the inning after he showed up. Matt Carpenter and Mike Shildt were both ejected from the game in the top of the 9th after a bad third strike call from the umpire. After that, however, Carlos Martinez saved the game. It was announced today that Mike Shildt has made Carlos the closer and I think that was a good choice. Carlos thrives on pressure. Let’s hope the magic returns and carries the Cards into the playoffs.

Hopefully, the win today will provide some momentum for the Cards’ return to Busch Stadium for the second to the last homestand of the season that starts tomorrow night. Our good friend Adam Wainwright will be the starter for tomorrow night’s game, albeit without his batterymate Yadi. The last weekday game of the season is Wednesday against the Pirates. Here are all the details on the upcoming homestand. Will you be attending any games?

ST. LOUIS, Mo., September 7, 2018 – The Cardinals return to Busch Stadium on September 10th after a six-game road trip through Washington and Detroit. The seven-game homestand kicks off with three games against the Pittsburgh Pirates (September 10-12) and concludes with a four-game series versus the Los Angeles Dodgers (September 13-16). The twelfth homestand of the season is highlighted by 80s Night and a Mark McGwire bobblehead giveaway.

Law Enforcement Appreciation Theme Night: Support our brave men and women in uniform at Law Enforcement Appreciation Night presented by American Eagle Credit Union! With the purchase of a special Theme Ticket, fans will receive an exclusive Cardinals Law Enforcement t-shirt. A portion of each ticket sold will benefit the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. A day game option is available on September 12. To purchase tickets, visit cardinals.com/lawenforcement. #CardsTheme

September 11th Commemoration: The TSA Color Guard will present the colors during tonight’s pregame presentation of God Bless America and the National Anthem. Kristin Salvatore, a survivor of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attack on the World Trade Center, will throw a ceremonial pitch prior to tonight’s game. We will also observe a moment of silence in remembrance of all the victims of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

Firefighters Appreciation Theme Night: Celebrate the men and women that help keep our city safe at Firefighter Appreciation Night presented by American Eagle Credit Union! With the purchase of a special Theme Ticket, fans will receive an exclusive Cardinals Firefighter t-shirt. A portion of each ticket sold will be donated to The Backstoppers. A day game option is available on September 12. To purchase tickets, visit cardinals.com/firefighters. #CardsTheme

Autograph Night: Get free autographs from current and former Cardinals players, courtesy of Academy Sports + Outdoors. Francisco Peña will sign 100 autographs in Budweiser Terrace for fans ages 15 and younger from 5:45-6:15. Kids must have an autograph line ticket, which are free and are distributed in Budweiser Terrace. Former Cardinals Greg Mathews and David Green will sign autographs for fans of all ages from 6:15-7:00. Players subject to change.

Cardinals Care Stadium Auction:Auction tables will be located at Gates 1 and 3, inside the Cardinals Club, UMB Champions Club and Redbird Club for fans and collectors to obtain specialty Cardinals items while helping support the programs that Cardinals Care provides to youth in the community. #CardsCare

Player Ticket Program:A player will host a group from a local charitable organization for tonight’s game as part of the club’s Player Ticket Program.

Law Enforcement & Firefighter Appreciation Theme Day: Support or brave men and women in uniform at Law Enforcement & Firefighter Appreciation Day presented by American Eagle Credit Union! With the purchase of a special Theme Ticket, fans will receive an exclusive Cardinals Law Enforcement or Firefighter t-shirt. To purchase tickets, visit cardinals.com/theme. #CardsTheme

Career Day Theme Event: Students and educators can enjoy a special pregame Q&A/panel discussion with executives focusing on careers in sports and media, followed by an exclusive College Fair with representatives from colleges and universities around the Midwest. The $15 Career Day Theme Ticket also includes a ticket to the game plus a jumbo hot dog, soda & chips. To purchase tickets, visit cardinals.com/careerday. #CardsTheme

T-Shirt of the Month Giveaway: The Redbirds are hot! What can we attribute this spicy streak to? It’s Gotta Be The Salsa! 20,000 fans, ages 16 and older, will take home a t-shirt commemorating the team’s salsa craze, designed by Fresh Brewed Tees. #CardsPromo

Halfway to St. Patrick’s Day Theme Night: Join us for Halfway to St. Patrick’s Day presented by the St. Louis Metropolitan St. Patrick’s Day Parade at Busch Stadium. Fans who purchase a special Theme Ticket will receive an exclusive green lightweight hooded pullover. To purchase tickets, visit cardinals.com/theme. #CardsTheme

Player Ticket Program:Adam Wainwright will host a group from Lift for Life Gym for tonight’s game as part of the club’s Player Ticket Program.

MLBPAA Auction: The MLB Players Alumni Association will conduct a silent auction by Gate 1, Gate 3 and inside the Cardinals Club through the fifth inning. All proceeds will benefit Cardinals Care and the MLBPAA.

Replica 1928 Jersey Giveaway: 30,000 fans ages 16 and older, can help honor the 90-year anniversary of the 1928 season by taking home a one-of-a-kind 1928 replica jersey, featuring pinstripes and a throwback Cardinals logo. Presented by Old Dominion Freight Line. #CardsPromo

80s Theme Night: Go Crazy Folks, Go Crazy! We’re going back in time to celebrate 80s Night at Busch Stadium. With the purchase of a special Theme Ticket, fans will receive an exclusive 80s-themed Cardinals dugout jacket. Come early for a rad pregame concert by That 80’s Band in Budweiser Terrace. In honor of a favorite 80s movie, Back to the Future, a portion of each ticket sold will be donated to Team Gateway To A Cure, benefiting the Michael J. Fox Foundation and Caregivers Support Groups. To purchase tickets, visit cardinals.com/80s. #CardsTheme

Cardinals en Español: Tonight’s game will be broadcast over the radio in Spanish by Polo Ascencio and Bengie Molina. The Spanish broadcast will air locally on WIJR 880 AM and be streamed via cardinals.com & the MLB.com At Bat mobile app. #STLCardenales or #SomosSTL

Artifact Spotlight: Before every Friday home game, the Cardinals Museum highlights artifacts in the collection not currently on display during a pregame presentation inside the Museum at 3:00 & 3:30. Today’s featured item relates to Hall of Fame first baseman and 1928 MVP, Jim Bottomley. To purchase museum tickets, visit cardinals.com/museum. #CardsMuseum

Flashback Friday: Before every Friday home game at 4:00 p.m., the Cardinals Museum will host a presentation about Cardinals history or a museum-related topic from one of the Museum’s staff members, a former player or a visiting author. Today’s presentation will be led by former Cardinals pitcher Woody Williams. To purchase museum tickets, visit cardinals.com/museum. #CardsMuseum

Cardinals Care Stadium Auction:Auction tables will be located at Gates 1 and 3, inside the Cardinals Club, UMB Champions Club and Redbird Club for fans and collectors to obtain specialty Cardinals items while helping support the programs that Cardinals Care provides to youth in the community. #CardsCare

MLBPAA Auction: The MLB Players Alumni Association will conduct a silent auction by Gate 1, Gate 3 and inside the Cardinals Club through the fifth inning. All proceeds will benefit Cardinals Care and the MLBPAA.

Replica 2013 Mystery NL Championship Ring Giveaway: 30,000 fans ages 16 and older, will receive a replica 2013 National League Champion mystery player ring, courtesy of Edward Jones. The individual player rings will celebrate a few of the top layers from the 2013 team including Yadier Molina, Matt Holliday, Adam Wainwright, Michael Wacha Matt Carpenter. #CardsPromo

Saturday Signings at the Museum: Former Cardinals pitcher Woody Williams will sign autographs at the Cardinals Museum from 9:00-11:00 a.m. Visit cardinals.com/museum for more information. #CardsMuseum

Cardinals en Español: Today’s game will be broadcast over the radio in Spanish by Polo Ascencio and Bengie Molina. The Spanish broadcast will air locally on WIJR 880 AM and be streamed via cardinals.com & the MLB.com At Bat mobile app. #STLCardenales or #SomosSTL

MLBPAA Auction: The MLB Players Alumni Association will conduct a silent auction by Gate 1, Gate 3 and inside the Cardinals Club through the fifth inning. All proceeds will benefit Cardinals Care and the MLBPAA.

#Join4Joe Bone Marrow Donor Drive: This marks the 3rd year of the #Join4Joe Bone Marrow Donor Drive, which is held each year in remembrance of Cardinals beat writer, Joe Strauss. Representatives from Be the Match will be in Ford Plaza and Budweiser Terrace to help fans sign up to receive a Bone Marrow Donor Kit. For more info visit cardinals.com/join4joe.

Mark McGwire Bobblehead Giveaway: 30,000 fans ages 16 and older, will take home their very own Mark McGwire bobblehead commemorating the 20-year anniversary of Big Mac’s record-breaking 62nd home run, courtesy of Coca-Cola and Dierbergs. #CardsPromo

Fiesta Cardenales Theme Event: The Cardinals welcome all members of the Latino and Hispanic community for a cultural celebration during Hispanic Heritage Month. With the purchase of a special Theme Ticket, fans will receive a one-of-a-kind Cardenales cap. A portion of each ticket sold will benefit the Hispanic Education Cultural & Scholarship Foundation. Come early for a pregame event featuring current Cardinals players and music in Budweiser Terrace. To purchase tickets, visit cardinals.com/fiesta. #CardsTheme

Cardinals en Español: Today’s game will be broadcast over the radio in Spanish by Polo Ascencio and Bengie Molina. The Spanish broadcast will air locally on WIJR 880 AM and be streamed via cardinals.com & the MLB.com At Bat mobile app. #STLCardenales or #SomosSTL

MLBPAA Auction: The MLB Players Alumni Association will conduct a silent auction by Gate 1, Gate 3 and inside the Cardinals Club through the fifth inning. All proceeds will benefit Cardinals Care and the MLBPAA.

That’s all for now! Thanks as always for reading and see you next time!

The Cardinals have been on fire on this last road trip. They only lost one game, which was Saturday’s game in Colorado. Matt Carpenter’s bat has been as hot as his salsa – he hit 4 doubles in yesterday’s game. Carlos Martinez shut down the Rockies on Friday evening, bailing out Miles Mikolas. Harrison Bader has been, for lack of a better word, awesome. He defies description. And Mike Shildt should have the “interim” taken off of his title no later than the end of the season. He has done a fantastic job turning this team around and letting his coaches do their jobs.

On the injury front, Kolten Wong is day-to-day after a hamstring strain on Saturday. Mike Mayers was put on the disabled list with right shoulder inflammation and Dominic Leone was activated. Dominic was so excited to be back with the club that he skipped onto the field. Ryan Sheriff, who has been on the DL after Tommy John surgery, was given his outright release.

The rosters will expand on Friday and some of our old friends will return, like Adam Wainwright. The Cards need to keep winning series without any major injuries. Some help from the other teams would be great too. I really enjoy watching Cardinals baseball right now. If I didn’t have Bible study tonight, I would be lost, since there is no game tonight.

The Cards return to Busch Stadium tomorrow night for the first of the last three homestands of the season. There’s only one more month of the regular season. That’s so hard to believe! I will be attending Wednesday night’s and Thursday night’s game, so please Cards, win. The last 2 times I’ve been to a game, the Cards have lost. 😦 My son’s birthday is this Thursday. I feel really old – I can buy him a beer and he’s old enough to legally drink it! Here are all the details on this homestand:

HOMESTAND HIGHLIGHTS

(Tuesday, August 28—Sunday, September 2)

Game of Thrones Night and Beatles Night Highlight Eleventh Homestand of 2018

ST. LOUIS, Mo., August 27, 2018 – The Cardinals are back at Busch Stadium after winning five of six in Los Angeles and Denver and return as the hottest team in baseball with a record of 19-5 in the month of August. The six-game homestand kicks off with three games against the Pittsburgh Pirates (August 28-30) and concludes with a three-game series versus the Cincinnati Reds (August 31-September 2). The eleventh homestand of the season is highlighted by Ray Lankford’s Bud Bash appearance and Union Appreciation Day.

Ray Lankford Budweiser Bash Theme Event: Fans who purchase a special Bud Bash Theme Ticket will receive a limited-edition Ray Lankford bobblehead as we celebrate Cardinal fan favorites. VIP ticket-holders will also have access to a pregame autograph session with Ray in the Budweiser Terrace. To purchase tickets, visit cardinals.com/budbash. #BudBash

Battle at Busch: 105.7 The Point and the Cardinals welcome back the Battle at Busch concert series. Tonight’s battle features Chasing Ginger, Mars Transit and Postal Modern. Gate 6 will open at 5:15 p.m. for the event. Performances begin at 5:35 p.m. in Budweiser Terrace. Tickets are available for $5 to each Battle at Busch game at cardinals.com/battleatbusch.

Purina Pet Adoption: Join us for Purina’s Better Together Pet Adoption Days at the Ballpark. Head to Ford Plaza prior to the games to meet adoptable furry friends from Five Acres and the Belleville area Humane Society.

Cardinals Care Stadium Auction: Auction tables will be located at Gates 1 and 3, inside the Cardinals Club, UMB Champions Club and Redbird Club for fans and collectors to obtain specialty Cardinals items while helping support the programs that Cardinals Care provides to youth in the community. #CardsCare

Game of Thrones Theme Night: Lord Dewitt, third of his name, is calling upon all Cardinals fans to join forces and enjoy Game of Thrones Night at the ballpark. Fans who purchased this special Theme Ticket will receive their very own bobblehead commemorating Ozzie Smith’s ascension to MLB’s Iron Throne. An official Game of Thrones Iron Throne will be on hand for photo opportunities in Budweiser Terrace. To purchase tickets, visit cardinals.com/thrones.

Player Ticket Program: Harrison Bader will host a group from the St. Louis Dream Center for tonight’s game as part of the club’s Player Ticket Program.

Billikens Theme Night: Come cheer on the Cardinals with fellow Billikens alumni and fans! With the purchase of a special Theme Ticket, fans will receive a Billikens-themed Cardinals mesh jersey. Come early for a pregame pep rally featuring special Billiken guests. To purchase tickets, visit cardinals.com/billikens. #CardsTheme

Purina Pet Adoption: Join us for Purina’s Better Together Pet Adoption Days at the Ballpark. Head to Ford Plaza prior to the games to meet adoptable furry friends from Five Acres and the Belleville Area Humane Society.

Fowler’s Friends: Dexter Fowler will host a group from College Bound for tonight’s game as part of his Fowler’s Friends Player Ticket Program.

Friday, August 31, 2018 — Cardinals vs. Cincinnati Reds (7:15 p.m.)

Gates open at 5:15 p.m.

Beer Stein Giveaway: 30,000 fans ages 21 and older, will receive a beer stein highlighting the Cardinals World Series Championship vs. the Milwaukee Brewers in 1982. Presented by Budweiser. #CardsPromo

Cardinals en Español: Tonight’s game will be broadcast over the radio in Spanish by Polo Ascencio and Bengie Molina. The Spanish broadcast will air locally on WIJR 880 AM and be streamed via cardinals.com & the MLB.com At Bat mobile app. #STLCardenales or #SomosSTL

Artifact Spotlight: Before every Friday home game, the Cardinals Museum highlights artifacts in the collection not currently on display during a pregame presentation inside the Museum at 3:00 & 3:30. Today’s featured item relates to the legacy of Stan Musial. To purchase museum tickets, visit cardinals.com/museum. #CardsMuseum

Flashback Friday: Before every Friday home game at 4:00 p.m., the Cardinals Museum will host a presentation about Cardinals history or a museum-related topic from one of the Museum’s staff members, a former player or a visiting author. Today’s presentation will be led by museum staff and focus on the 1982 World Series Trophy design. To purchase museum tickets, visit cardinals.com/museum. #CardsMuseum

Cardinals Care Stadium Auction: Auction tables will be located at Gates 1 and 3, inside the Cardinals Club, UMB Champions Club and Redbird Club for fans and collectors to obtain specialty Cardinals items while helping support the programs that Cardinals Care provides to youth in the community. #CardsCare

Embroidered Jersey Giveaway: 30,000 fans ages 16 and older, will take home a Home White Embroidered Jersey, courtesy of TD Ameritrade. #CardsPromo

Saturday Signings at the Museum: Former Cardinals pitcher Alan Benes will sign autographs at the Cardinals Museum from 2:00-4:00 p.m. Visit cardinals.com/museum for more information. #CardsMuseum

Cardinals en Español: Today’s game will be broadcast over the radio in Spanish by Polo Ascencio and Bengie Molina. The Spanish broadcast will air locally on WIJR 880 AM and be streamed via cardinals.com & the MLB.com At Bat mobile app. #STLCardenales or #SomosSTL

MLBPAA Auction: The MLB Players Alumni Association will conduct a silent auction by Gate 1, Gate 3 and inside the Cardinals Club through the fifth inning. All proceeds will benefit Cardinals Care and the MLBPAA.

Sunday, September 2, 2018 — Cardinals vs. Cincinnati Reds (1:15 p.m.)

Gates open at 11:15 a.m.

Cardinals Bear Giveaway: 12,000 kids ages 15 and under, will take home their very own Cardinals Bear, presented by Build-A-Bear Workshop. #CardsPromo

Fredbird’s Birthday Party Theme Event: With the purchase of a special Theme Ticket, fans will join Fredbird and friends for a pregame birthday party and lots of great photo ops in Cunningham Corner. Lunch and dessert will be provided and each special guest will take home a Cardinals goodie bag! Tickets are currently sold out. For more information, visit cardinals.com/theme. #CardsTheme

Union Appreciation Theme Day: Start your Labor Day celebration a day early! Fans who purchase this special Theme Ticket will receive a specially-designed Cardinals “Union Proud” t-shirt. Additionally, a portion of each ticket sold will be donated to the St. Louis Labor Council’s “$5 For The Fight” fund. To purchase tickets, visit cardinals.com/union. #CardsTheme

Cardinals en Español: Today’s game will be broadcast over the radio in Spanish by Polo Ascencio and Bengie Molina. The Spanish broadcast will air locally on WIJR 880 AM and be streamed via cardinals.com & the MLB.com At Bat mobile app. #STLCardenales or #SomosSTL

MLBPAA Auction: The MLB Players Alumni Association will conduct will conduct a silent auction by Gate 1, Gate 3 and inside the Cardinals Club through the fifth inning. All proceeds will benefit Cardinals Care and the MLBPAA.

Hello everyone! Wouldn’t you agree that it is much more enjoyable to watch Cardinals baseball these days? Since July 27, the date of my last post, the Cardinals have won 5 series in a row, including sweeping the Royals this weekend. Matt Carpenter is on fire, and has hit 32 HR as of this writing. His bat is as hot as the salsa he’s been eating. He has to be in consideration for the National League MVP. In a move before the trade deadline, Tommy Pham was traded to the Rays for a couple of prospects. Pham, however, broke his foot 2 days later and will be out for a while. This trade brought up Harrison Bader from Memphis and I have really enjoyed watching Bader play. He has great range in the outfield, he can hit, and he runs very fast. He’s easy on the eyes as well.

John Mozeliak picked up pitcher Tyler Ross, who was an All-Star in 2014, from the waiver wire. Ross had to pitch today after Luke Weaver cut his right index finger opening an aluminum food container.

The wins have been great, but the injury train continues. Dexter Fowler broke his foot, so Tyler O’Neill was brought up from Memphis. However, O’Neill was felled by a groin injury (which was deemed “sensitive” by the team, leading to many wiseacres on Twitter saying he had the clap). Adolis Garcia was brought up from Memphis to replace him. Yairo Munez sprained his wrist, so Patrick Wisdom finally got a call up to the show, after 7 years in the minors.

Mike Shildt has done a great job with the lineup, keeping it consistent. He also has put Yadi in the 2 slot, and it has paid off. I understand that he does a great job at the post-game pressers, although I have yet to see one since hubby changes the channel after the game is over. Hopefully the “interim” will be taken off of his title after this season.

The Cardinals had a happy flight home this afternoon and start a 7 game homestand starting tomorrow evening. My son and I will be at Thursday night’s game, which is a T-shirt night. I have been at 4 games this season, and I am 2-2, with the Cards losing the last two games I attended. I’m hoping they win Thursday night. This weekend is also Cardinals Hall of Fame weekend – Harry Brecheen, Ray Lankford and Vince Coleman will be inducted into the Cardinals Hall of Fame on Saturday. Here are all the details for the upcoming homestand:

HOMESTAND HIGHLIGHTS (Monday, August 13—Sunday, August 19)

Hall of Fame Weekend and Military Appreciation Night Highlight Tenth Homestand of 2018

ST. LOUIS, Mo., August 12, 2018 – The Cardinals return to Busch Stadium after winning all three series on their recent nine-game road trip. The seven-game homestand kicks off with four games against the Washington Nationals (August 13-16) and concludes with a three-game series versus the Milwaukee Brewers (August 17-19). The tenth homestand of the season is highlighted by the team’s fifth Hall of Fame Induction Class and second annual Pride Night.

BBQ Theme Night: Come join us at Ballpark Village for the first ever BBQ Night, presented by Q in the Lou. Fans who purchase a special Theme Ticket will get to sample some free BBQ and take home an exclusive Cardinals BBQ Apron. We’re firing up the grills from 5:30-7:30 across the street in the Busch II infield. For tickets, visit cardinals.com/BBQ. #CardsTheme

Long Haul Bombers: The Long Haul Bombers, a collection of the world’s greatest softball home run hitters, will hold a softball home run hitting contest on the field starting at 6:00 p.m.

MLBPAA Auction: The MLB Players Alumni Association will conduct a silent auction by Gate 1 and Gate 3 through the fifth inning. All proceeds will benefit Cardinals Care and the MLBPAA.

Sandlot Theme Night: One of America’s favorite baseball movies is turning 25 this year, and the celebration is coming to Busch Stadium! With the purchase of a special Theme Ticket, fans will get their choice between a Cardinals Ham bobblehead or a Cardinals Squints bobblehead. ‘Squints’ Palledorous will be on hand to meet and greet fans in Budweiser Terrace! To purchase tickets, visit cardinals.com/sandlot. #CardsTheme

Wainwright’s Winners:Adam Wainwright will host a group from Special Olympics Missouri for tonight’s game as part of his Wainwright’s Winners Player Ticket Program.

Boots at Busch: 93.7 The Bull and the Cardinals welcome back Boots at Busch—a series of home games featuring live country music in a “battle of the bands” format. Tonight’s battle features Chasing Ginger, Mars Transit and Postal Modern. Performances begin at 5:35 p.m. in Budweiser Terrace. Tickets are available for $5 to each Battle at Busch game at cardinals.com/bootsatbusch.

Cardinals Care Stadium Auction:Auction tables will be located at Gates 1 and 3, inside the Cardinals Club, UMB Champions Club and Redbird Club for fans and collectors to obtain specialty Cardinals items while helping support the programs that Cardinals Care provides to youth in the community. #CardsCare

Military Appreciation Theme Night: The Cardinals are proud to partner with FOX Sports Midwest to celebrate our troops and veterans on the second annual Military Appreciation Night. Fans who purchased a special Theme Ticket will receive an exclusive camo Cardinals cap. A portion of each ticket purchased will be donated to USO Missouri. For tickets, visit cardinals.com/militarynight. #CardsThem

Telecast To The Troops: FOX Sports Midwest presents This One’s For You, its annual Cardinals telecast to the troops which began in 2005. FSM will conduct live interviews with soldiers from the Missouri Air National Guard’s 35th Engineer Brigade deployed in Buehring, Kuwait. Family members and supporters of the 35th Brigade will be at Busch Stadium as well.

Dream Weavers:Luke Weaver will host a group from Children’s Advocacy for tonight’s game as part of his Dream Weavers Player Ticket Program.

MLBPAA Auction: The MLB Players Alumni Association will conduct a silent auction by Gates 1 and 3 through the fifth inning. All proceeds will benefit Cardinals Care and the MLBPAA.

T-Shirt of the Month Giveaway: 20,000 fans, ages 16 and older, will take home a t-shirt honoring Hall of Famer, Bob Gibson. #CardsPromo

Autograph Night: Get free autographs from current and former Cardinals players, courtesy of Academy Sports + Outdoors. Tyler O’Neill will sign 100 autographs in Budweiser Terrace for fans ages 15 and younger from 4:45-5:15. Kids must have an autograph line ticket, which are free and are distributed in Budweiser Terrace. Former Cardinals Scott Terry and Kerry Robinson will sign autographs for fans of all ages from 5:15-6:00. Players subject to change.

Gateway Motorsports Racing Theme Night: Start your engines and race down to Busch Stadium! All fans who purchase a special Theme Ticket will receive a racing-inspired Cardinals cap, plus a general admission pass to the INDYCAR Qualifying Night and the NASCAR K&N race at Gateway Motorsports Park on August 24, and a general admission ticket for the INDYCAR race on August 25. For tickets, visit cardinals.com/gateway. #CardsTheme

Tsunami Waves:Carlos Martínez will host a group from the Puerto Rican Society of St. Louis for tonight’s game as part of his Tsunami Waves Player Ticket Program.

MLBPAA Auction: The MLB Players Alumni Association will conduct a silent auction by Gate 1 and Gate 3 through the fifth inning. All proceeds will benefit Cardinals Care and the MLBPAA.

Friday, August 17, 2018 — Cardinals vs. Milwaukee Brewers (7:15 p.m.)

Cardinals Hall of Fame Weekend presented by Edward Jones

Gates open at 5:15 p.m.

Mystery Batting Practice Pullover Giveaway: 30,000 fans ages 16 and older, will be surprised at the gates when they discover which of their favorite Cardinal players they get to rep with an adult Cardinals Mystery BP Pullover, courtesy of Coca-Cola and Schnucks. #CardsPromo

Pride Theme Night: Join LGBT friends, family and allies as the Cardinals and Pride St. Louis partner to present the second annual Pride Night at Busch Stadium. With the purchase of a special Theme Ticket, fans will receive an exclusive Cardinals t-shirt with a rainbow STL logo. Additionally, a portion of each theme ticket sold will benefit Missouri Courage Scholarship, which is the first and largest state-wide LGBTQ scholarship organization in Missouri. The Gateway Men’s Chorus will be performing God Bless America prior to the game as well. For more tickets, visit cardinals.com/pride. #CardsTheme

Heart & Hustle Award Presentation: In a pregame ceremony, Harrison Bader will be presented with the MLBPAA 2018 Heart and Hustle Award. The esteemed award honors active players who demonstrate a passion for the game of baseball and best embody the values, spirit and traditions of the game. The Heart and Hustle Award is the only award in MLB that is voted on by former players.

Cardinals en Español: Tonight’s game will be broadcast over the radio in Spanish by Polo Ascencio and Bengie Molina. The Spanish broadcast will air locally on WIJR 880 AM and be streamed via cardinals.com & the MLB.com At Bat mobile app. #STLCardenales or #SomosSTL

Artifact Spotlight: Before every Friday home game, the Cardinals Museum highlights artifacts in the collection not currently on display during a pregame presentation inside the Museum at 3:00 & 3:30. Today’s featured item relates to the 2018 Cardinals Hall of Fame Induction Class. To purchase museum tickets, visit cardinals.com/museum. #CardsMuseum

Flashback Friday: Before every Friday home game at 4:00 p.m., the Cardinals Museum will host a presentation about Cardinals history or a museum-related topic from one of the Museum’s staff members, a former player or a visiting author. Today’s presentation will be led by Steve Brecheen, son of newly inducted Cardinals Hall of Fame pitcher, Harry Brecheen. To purchase museum tickets, visit cardinals.com/museum. #CardsMuseum

Cardinals Care Stadium Auction:Auction tables will be located at Gates 1 and 3, inside the Cardinals Club, UMB Champions Club and Redbird Club for fans and collectors to obtain specialty Cardinals items while helping support the programs that Cardinals Care provides to youth in the community. #CardsCare

Cardinals Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony: Ray Lankford, Vince Coleman, and Harry Brecheen will be inducted into the Cardinals Hall of Fame during a 3:00 p.m. ceremony at FOX Sports Midwest Live! in Ballpark Village. The ceremony is free and open to the public. The 2018 inductees will also be recognized as part of a pregame ceremony on the field at Busch Stadium. #CardsHOF

Cardinals Wives Grab Bag Fundraiser: Cardinals Wives will be selling mystery grab bags to fans for $50 at Gates 1, 3, and 4, the Cardinals Club, the Redbird Club, Ford Plaza and Bud Terrace. Inside each bag is an autographed baseball from a Cardinals player and a card revealing the mystery signature. The proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit Great Circle and KEEN St. Louis. For more info visit cardinals.com/cardinalswives. #CardsWives

Saturday Signings at the Museum: Cardinals Hall of Famer Willie McGee will sign autographs at the Cardinals Museum from 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Visitcardinals.com/museum for more information. #CardsMuseum

Cardinals en Español: Today’s game will be broadcast over the radio in Spanish by Polo Ascencio and Bengie Molina. The Spanish broadcast will air locally on WIJR 880 AM and be streamed via cardinals.com & the MLB.com At Bat mobile app. #STLCardenales or #SomosSTL

MLBPAA Auction: The MLB Players Alumni Association will conduct a silent auction by Gate 1, Gate 3 and inside the Cardinals Club through the fifth inning. All proceeds will benefit Cardinals Care and the MLBPAA.

Honorary First Pitch: Miss Missouri USA 2018, Tori Kruse, will throw out a ceremonial first pitch before today’s game.

Cardinals en Español: Today’s game will be broadcast over the radio in Spanish by Polo Ascencio and Bengie Molina. The Spanish broadcast will air locally on WIJR 880 AM and be streamed via cardinals.com & the MLB.com At Bat mobile app. #STLCardenales or #SomosSTL

MLBPAA Auction: The MLB Players Alumni Association will conduct a silent auction by Gate 1, Gate 3 and inside the Cardinals Club through the fifth inning. All proceeds will benefit Cardinals Care and the MLBPAA.

In the evening before my last blog post, the Cardinals fired Mike Matheny, John Mabry and Bill Mueller in an effort to change the Cardinals’ fortunes. Mike Shildt was named the interim manager and Mark Budaska and George Greer was brought up from the Memphis club to be the hitting coaches. Unfortunately, the Cards’ record since the firings is 4-5, thanks to the bullpen blowing games and other issues. Further surgery needed to be performed to help the team play good baseball.

President of Operations John Mozeliak performed that surgery today in a bunch of roster moves, which are listed below:

The Tuivailala trade was very unexpected. I thought Tui was pitching better in his last few appearances. Elledge was one of the Mariners’ top 10 prospects, according to Baseball America. Elledge is to report to the Springfield affiliate.

I was glad to see Poncedeleon brought back up. He pitched a great game Monday night, which he unfortunately lost thanks to the bullpen. The story of him coming back to play baseball from a life-threatening injury would make a great movie, and I am happy he has recovered fully from his injury.

The fans on Twitter were calling for Holland to be DFA’d for a long time, so Mo obliged them. Lyons had not been pitching well this season, so his release was not unexpected. Cecil being put on the disabled list was surprising. There were fans calling for Cecil’s release as well. Maybe it’s just a matter of time.

All of the roster moves today were for pitching . Does Mo have any moves up his sleeve for the rest of the roster? The trade deadline is July 31, so Mo has a few days to get some other moves done. Hopefully all of these roster moves will right the ship and the Cardinals can field a better team.

Luke Weaver is starting tonight for the Cardinals. This weekend’s series is against the Cards’ arch-rival, the Cubs. Will you be there? Here are all the details on this homestand:

Friday, July 27, 2018 — Cardinals vs. Chicago Cubs (7:15 p.m.)

MLB Network Showcase National Broadcast (out-of-market only)

Gates open at 5:15 p.m.

Fireworks Night: Stay in your seat after the game to watch a dazzling fireworks display with the St. Louis Arch as the backdrop, presented by Cooper Tires. #CardsPromo

Autograph Night: Get free autographs from current and former Cardinals players, courtesy of Academy Sports + Outdoors. Greg Garcia will sign 100 autographs in Budweiser Terrace for fans ages 15 and younger from 5:45-6:15. Kids must have an autograph line ticket, which are free and are distributed in Budweiser Terrace. Former Cardinals Scott Cooper and Mike Tyson will sign autographs for fans of all ages from 6:15-7:00. Players subject to change.

Cardinals en Español: Tonight’s game will be broadcast over the radio in Spanish by Polo Ascencio and Bengie Molina. The Spanish broadcast will air locally on WIJR 880 AM and be streamed via cardinals.com & the MLB.com At Bat mobile app. #STLCardenales or #SomosSTL

Artifact Spotlight: Before every Friday home game, the Cardinals Museum highlights artifacts in the collection not currently on display during a pregame presentation inside the Museum at 3:00 & 3:30. Today’s featured item relates to the trade for Hall of Famer outfielder, Lou Brock. To purchase museum tickets, visit cardinals.com/museum. #CardsMuseum

Flashback Friday: Before every Friday home game at 4:00 p.m., the Cardinals Museum will host a presentation about Cardinals history or a museum-related topic from one of the Museum’s staff members, a former player or a visiting author. Today’s presentation will be led by museum staff and focus on how to care for your collectibles. To purchase museum tickets, visit cardinals.com/museum. #CardsMuseum

Metro Art Bus Painting: Baseball fans of all ages can help add some color to the MetroBus fleet by painting two specially designed Cardinals murals onto the Art Bus. The event is free and will take place outside the Official Busch Stadium Team Store from 5:00-7:00 p.m.

Cardinals Care Stadium Auction:Auction tables will be located inside the Cardinals Club, UMB Champions Club and Redbird Club for fans and collectors to obtain specialty Cardinals items while helping support the programs that Cardinals Care provides to youth in the community. #CardsCare

MLBPAA Auction: The MLB Players Alumni Association will conduct a silent auction by Gate 1 and Gate 3 through the fifth inning. All proceeds will benefit Cardinals Care and the MLBPAA.

Saturday, July 28, 2018 — Cardinals vs. Chicago Cubs (3:05 p.m.)

MLB on FOX Sports 1 National Broadcast

Gates open at 1:05 p.m.

Growth Poster Giveaway: All kids, ages 15 and younger entering with a ticket, will receive a Cardinals Poster so they can track their growth alongside shortstop Paul DeJong. Presented by MO Farmers Care. #CardsPromo

Saturday Signings at the Museum: Former Cardinals pitcher John Stuper will sign autographs at the Cardinals Museum from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Visit cardinals.com/museum for more information. #CardsMuseum

Cardinals en Español: Today’s game will be broadcast over the radio in Spanish by Polo Ascencio and Bengie Molina. The Spanish broadcast will air locally on WIJR 880 AM and be streamed via cardinals.com and the MLB.com At Bat mobile app. #STLCardenales or #SomosSTL

MLBPAA Auction: The MLB Players Alumni Association will conduct a silent auction by Gate 1, Gate 3 and inside the Cardinals Club through the fifth inning. All proceeds will benefit Cardinals Care and the MLBPAA.

Author Series: Author Gregory Wolf will be speaking about his book “Sportsman’s Park in St. Louis” inside the Cardinals Museum from 4:00-5:00 p.m. Museum admission required and books will be available for purchase. Visit cardinals.com/museum for more information. #CardsMuseum

Cardinals en Español: Today’s game will be broadcast over the radio in Spanish by Polo Ascencio and Bengie Molina. The Spanish broadcast will air locally on WIJR 880 AM and be streamed via cardinals.com & the MLB.com At Bat mobile app. #STLCardenales or #SomosSTL

MLBPAA Auction: The MLB Players Alumni Association will conduct a silent auction by Gate 1, Gate 3 and inside the Cardinals Club through the fifth inning. All proceeds will benefit Cardinals Care and the MLBPAA.

Monday, July 30, 2018 — Cardinals vs. Colorado Rockies (7:10 p.m.)

Gates open at 5:40 p.m.

Christmas In July Theme Night: It doesn’t matter if you have been naughty or nice because Christmas in July is back at the ballpark. Fans who purchase a special Theme Ticket will receive an exclusive Santa Fredbird bobblehead. Additionally, Santa Fredbird and other Christmas characters will be on hand for photos before the game. To purchase tickets, visit cardinals.com/christmas. #CardsTheme

Tha Phamily:Tommy Pham will host a group from Kingdom House for tonight’s game as part of his Tha Phamily Player Ticket Program.

MLBPAA Auction: The MLB Players Alumni Association will conduct a silent auction by Gate 1 and Gate 3 through the fifth inning. All proceeds will benefit Cardinals Care and the MLBPAA.

Tuesday, July 31, 2018 — Cardinals vs. Colorado Rockies (7:15 p.m.)

Gates open at 5:45 p.m.

T-Shirt of the Month Giveaway: In honor of one of the greatest player to ever put on a Cardinals uniform, 20,000 fans, ages 16 and older, will take home a jersey t-shirt of the late Hall of Famer, Red Schoendienst. #CardsPromo

Larry Walker Budweiser Bash Theme Event: Fans who purchase a special Bud Bash Theme Ticket will receive a limited-edition Larry Walker bobblehead as we celebrate Cardinal fan favorites. VIP ticket-holders will also have access to a pregame autograph session with Larry in the Budweiser Terrace. VIP tickets are sold out. To purchase tickets, visit cardinals.com/budbash. #BudBash

Fowler’s Friends:Dexter Fowler will host a group from the Boys & Girls Club of St. Louis for tonight’s game as part of his Fowler’s Friends Player Ticket Program.

Battle at Busch: 105.7 The Point and the Cardinals welcome back the Battle at Busch concert series. Tonight’s battle features Ashes of Snow, Dear Genre and Street Wise. Gate 6 will open at 5:15 p.m. for the event. Performances begin at 5:35 p.m. in Budweiser Terrace. Tickets are available for $5 to each Battle at Busch game at cardinals.com/battleatbusch.

Cardinals Care Stadium Auction:Auction tables will be located at Gates 1 and 3, inside the Cardinals Club, UMB Champions Club and Redbird Club for fans and collectors to obtain specialty Cardinals items while helping support the programs that Cardinals Care provides to youth in the community. #CardsCare

Hello Kitty Night: Everyone’s favorite Sanrio friend is making an appearance at the ballpark for Hello Kitty Night. Fans who purchase this special Theme Ticket will receive a Cardinals-themed Hello Kitty bobblehead. For tickets, visit cardinals.com/hellokitty. #CardsTheme

Bowmaniacs:Matt Bowman will host a group from Basket of Hope for tonight’s game as part of his Bowmaniacs Player Ticket Program.

Boots at Busch: 93.7 The Bull and the Cardinals welcome back Boots at Busch—a series of home games featuring live country music in a “battle of the bands” format. Tonight’s battle features Brushville, Feel and Kenna. Performances begin at 5:35 p.m. in Budweiser Terrace. Tickets are available for $5 to each Battle at Busch game at cardinals.com/bootsatbusch.

MLBPAA Auction: The MLB Players Alumni Association will conduct a silent auction by Gates 1 and 3 through the fifth inning. All proceeds will benefit Cardinals Care and the MLBPAA.

Great Clips Charity Haircuts: During the game, fans can root for the Redbirds and shape up their roots with a visit to Ford Plaza. For a $10 donation, Great Clips will cut your hair and donate all proceeds to Cardinals Care.

I was going to write a blog post with the exact same title (borrowed from the REO Speedwagon song) today, but outlining the reasons why manager Mike Matheny and hitting coaches John Mabry and Bill Mueller needed to be let go. However, the Cardinals beat me to it, firing the 3 M’s shortly after last night’s sloppy and twice rain-delayed game against the Reds. Twitter almost exploded with the many tweets from Cardinals fans and bloggers in shock, disbelief, and finally happiness. Bench coach Mike Shildt has been named the interim manager, and a press conference to be held this morning will probably name the interim hitting coach.

Matheny’s firing was not an unprecedented move – Joe Torre got fired mid-season in 1995, although it this was the first time that it has happened with the DeWitt ownership group. You may also recall that some coaching changes occurred around the time of the All-Star break last year. The 3 M’s probably should have been fired after last year, in my opinion. Last week’s article at The Athletic by Mark Saxon and the resulting media attention and fan outcry was probably the last straw, although Matheny’s lack of communication with Dexter Fowler didn’t help his cause either. Mike lost control of his team and for someone who’s supposed to be a leader of men, that was very bad.

On a personal level, I feel bad for Matheny – being fired is a shock. I’ve been fired/downsized from positions before and I can empathize. However, like in the real world, if you’re not doing your job to the best of your ability, your employer has the right to fire you. Matheny had many chances to right the ship and he did not.

The fans were also tired of very bad baseball. A comparison could be made to the Cards’ teams of the 1970’s, who besides the stellar talents of Ted Simmons, Lou Brock and Bob Gibson, were not very good. You may have noticed that I haven’t posted any blog posts here in a while, and I didn’t even do a post with this weekend’s homestand highlights – I was that disinterested. It became painful to even watch the games on TV.

I and Cardinals Nation have many questions now. Who will be the new manager? Will the Cards bring up Stubby Clapp (now there’s a great baseball name!) from Memphis? Or will the ownership team hire someone outside the Cards’ system, like Joe Girardi? Or will they promote Jose Oquendo? And who will be the new hitting coach? Will the Cards bring up Mark Budaska from Memphis, or will they hire someone like Matt Holliday or Carlos Beltran? And how soon will this all get done? Hopefully, a timetable for all this will be presented at today’s press conference.

A new era is dawning for the Cardinals, starting with today’s 1:15 PM game against the Reds, who have done quite well since they fired their manager. Will the Cardinals put the Matheny era behind them and start playing great baseball again? Cardinals Nation certainly hopes so, and I do too. It’s time for the Cardinals to play the great baseball they’re known for and not the hot mess we’ve seen so far this season. There may yet be time to right the SS. Cardinals and steam full speed ahead to the playoffs, but that starts today.

The Cardinals return home to Busch Stadium after a disappointing 3-4 road trip. Fans, bloggers and sportswriters alike are calling for John Mabry, the Cardinals’ hitting coach, to be fired. The last two games in Milwaukee were promising. The Cardinals won both of those games. The first three games of this homestand, however, are against the Cleveland Indians, who are the hottest team in baseball right now. Here’s hoping that the last two wins and coming back to the home field will put this team to rights. Here’s all the details on this upcoming homestand:

The Cardinals are back at Busch Stadium after a seven-game road trip through Philadelphia and Milwaukee. The six-game homestand kicks off with a three-game interleague series against the Cleveland Indians (June 25-27) and concludes with three games versus the Atlanta Braves (June 29-July 1). The seventh homestand of the season is highlighted by Bob Costas Night and an all-over print button up shirt gate giveaway. Additionally, fans are encouraged to continue voting online for Cardinals players for the 2018 All-Star Game in Washington D.C. at cardinals.com/vote. #VoteSTL

Monday, June 25, 2018 — Cardinals vs. Cleveland Indians (7:15 p.m.)

Gates open at 5:45 p.m.

Bob Costas Night: Broadcasting legend and honorary St. Louisan, Bob Costas, will be at the ballpark for Bob Costas Night! Fans who purchase a special Theme Ticket will receive an exclusive Bob Costas bobblehead celebrating his induction into the broadcast wing of the National Baseball Hall of Fame this summer. A portion of each ticket sold will be donated to SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital. To purchase tickets, visit cardinals.com/Costas. #CardsTheme

Tuesday, June 26, 2018 — Cardinals vs. Cleveland Indians (7:15 p.m.)

Gates open at 5:45 p.m.

Cancer Awareness Night:The Cardinals are teaming with Siteman Cancer Center and Siteman Kids at St. Louis Children’s Hospital to celebrate Cancer Awareness Night. Fans who purchase a special Theme Ticket will receive a Cardinals cap of their choice corresponding to the awareness colors of the most prevalent cancers in the St. Louis area. A portion of each ticket sold will be donated back to cancer research at Siteman Cancer Center. To purchase tickets, visit cardinals.com/cancer.#CardsTheme

Boots at Busch: 93.7 The Bull and the Cardinals welcome back Boots at Busch—a series of home games featuring live country music in a “battle of the bands” format. Tonight’s battle features Jordan McCants, Silver Creek and Miss E & The Rebels. Performances begin at 5:35 p.m. in Budweiser Terrace. Tickets are available for $5 to each Battle at Busch game at cardinals.com/bootsatbusch.

Dream Weavers:Luke Weaver will host a group from Burns Recovered for tonight’s game as part of his Dream Weavers Player Ticket Program.

Cardinals Care Stadium Auction:Auction tables will be located at Gates 1 and 3, inside the Cardinals Club, UMB Champions Club and Redbird Club for fans and collectors to obtain specialty Cardinals items while helping support the programs that Cardinals Care provides to youth in the community. #CardsCare

T-Shirt of the Month Giveaway: 20,000 fans, ages 16 and older, will take home a unique “The Heat is On” Cardinals t-shirt. The t-shirt’s design was selected as the winner by fans via an online vote. #CardsPromo

Tsunami Waves:Carlos Martinez will host a group from Crisis Nursery Latino Outreach for tonight’s game as part of his Tsunami Waves Player Ticket Program.

Battle at Busch: 105.7 The Point and the Cardinals welcome back the Battle at Busch concert series. Tonight’s battle features SHIVER, The Red Step Project and Skyline In Ruins. Gate 6 will open at 5:15 p.m. for the event. Performances begin at 5:35 p.m. in Budweiser Terrace. Tickets are available for $5 to each Battle at Busch game at cardinals.com/battleatbusch.

MLBPAA Auction: The MLB Players Alumni Association will conduct a silent auction by Gates 1 and 3 through the fifth inning. All proceeds will benefit Cardinals Care and the MLBPAA.

Margaritaville Night: Change your latitude and float on down to Busch Stadium for Margaritaville Night. Fans who purchase this special Theme Ticket will receive a Margaritaville-inspired Cardinals t-shirt and can enjoy a pregame concert in Budweiser Terrace by The Boat Drunks. To purchase tickets, visit cardinals.com/margaritaville. #CardsTheme

Cardinals en Español: Tonight’s game will be broadcast over the radio in Spanish by Polo Ascencio and Bengie Molina. The Spanish broadcast will air locally on WIJR 880 AM and be streamed via cardinals.com & the MLB.com At Bat mobile app. #STLCardenales or #SomosSTL

Artifact Spotlight: Before every Friday home game, the Cardinals Museum highlights artifacts in the collection not currently on display during a pregame presentation inside the Museum at 3:00 & 3:30. Today’s featured item relates to baseball’s fixation with facial hair! To purchase museum tickets, visitcardinals.com/museum. #CardsMuseum

Flashback Friday: Before every Friday home game at 4:00 p.m., the Cardinals Museum will host a presentation about Cardinals history or a museum-related topic from one of the Museum’s staff members, a former player or a visiting author. Today’s presentation will be hosted by former Cardinals starting pitcher Todd Stottlemyre. To purchase museum tickets, visit cardinals.com/museum. #CardsMuseum

Cardinals Care Stadium Auction:Auction tables will be located inside the Cardinals Club, UMB Champions Club and Redbird Club for fans and collectors to obtain specialty Cardinals items while helping support the programs that Cardinals Care provides to youth in the community. #CardsCare

MLBPAA Auction: The MLB Players Alumni Association will conduct a silent auction by Gates 1 and 3 through the fifth inning. All proceeds will benefit Cardinals Care and the MLBPAA.

Saturday, June 30, 2018 — Cardinals vs. Atlanta Braves (6:15 p.m.)

FOX Baseball Night in America National Broadcast

Gates open at 4:15 p.m.

Carlos Martínez Mystery Hair Bobblehead Giveaway: 30,000 fans, ages 16 and older, will take home one of four different Carlos Martínez Mystery Hair Bobbleheads, courtesy of AT&T. Be sure to make your way to Ford Plaza to check out the life–sized version of this bobblehead that will be on display all season long.#CardsPromo

Saturday Signings at the Museum: Former Cardinals starting pitcher Todd Stottlemyre will sign autographs at the Cardinals Museum from 2:00-4:00 p.m. Visit cardinals.com/museum for more information.

Cardinals en Español: Today’s game will be broadcast over the radio in Spanish by Polo Ascencio and Bengie Molina. The Spanish broadcast will air locally on WIJR 880 AM and be streamed via cardinals.com & the MLB.com At Bat mobile app. #STLCardenales or #SomosSTL

Cardinals Wives Grab Bag Fundraiser: Cardinals Wives will be selling mystery grab bags to fans for $50 at Gates 3 and 4, the Cardinals Club, the Redbird Club, Ford Plaza and Bud Terrace. Inside each bag is an autographed baseball from a Cardinals player and a card revealing the mystery signature. The proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit Angels’ Arms and Girls in the Know. For more info visit cardinals.com/cardinalswives. #CardsWives

MLBPAA Auction: The MLB Players Alumni Association will conduct a silent auction by Gate 1, Gate 3 and inside the Cardinals Club through the fifth inning. All proceeds will benefit Cardinals Care and the MLBPAA.

Kids Cardinals Bucket Hat Giveaway: All kids, ages 15 and younger entering with a ticket, will receive their very own Cardinals bucket hat, courtesy of Powerade.#CardsPromo

Transplant Awareness Day: Presented by Washington University, Barnes-Jewish Transplant Center and the St. Louis Children’s Hospital. Fans who purchase this special Theme Ticket will receive an exclusive Cardinals cap support organ donation! A portion of each ticket sold will be donated back to support transplants and organ donation. To purchase tickets, visit cardinals.com/transplant. #CardsTheme

Prairie Farms Kids Run the Bases: Following the game, fans ages 15 and under are invited to run the bases of Busch Stadium (weather permitting). Presented by Prairie Farms.

Cardinals en Español: Today’s game will be broadcast over the radio in Spanish by Polo Ascencio and Bengie Molina. The Spanish broadcast will air locally on WIJR 880 AM and be streamed via cardinals.com & the MLB.com At Bat mobile app. #STLCardenales or #SomosSTL

MLBPAA Auction: The MLB Players Alumni Association will conduct a silent auction by Gate 1, Gate 3 and inside the Cardinals Club through the fifth inning. All proceeds will benefit Cardinals Care and the MLBPAA.

This has been a sad week due to the death of Red Schoendiest. Red will always be remembered as Mr. Cardinal. Stan Musial was the heart of the Cardinals, but Red was the soul. Not only was he a great player and a great manager, but he was a wonderful person as well. We will always remember Red fondly. There will never be another person like Red. There are some wonderful articles about Red in today’s St. Louis Post-Dispatch – if you are not a St. Louis local, you can find the articles on www.stltoday.com.

Don’t you wish that the Cards could play the Reds every game? (Well, except for today’s game, which broke a long winning streak.) The Cardinals come back home tomorrow night for a series against the San Diego Padres and then the Cubs come back to town for a weekend series. Saturday night’s game is on the regular FOX channel and Sunday’s night game is once again on ESPN. Hopefully, the ESPN team will be nicer to us this time. Here’s all the details about the next homestand:

ST. LOUIS, Mo., June 10, 2018 – The Cardinals return to Busch Stadium after a quick three-game road trip to Cincinnati. The six-game homestand kicks off with a three-game series against the San Diego Padres (June 11-13) and concludes with three games versus NL Central rivals the Chicago Cubs (June 15-17). The sixth homestand of the season is highlighted by Star Wars Night and Teachers Night. Additionally, fans are encouraged to vote online for Cardinals players for the 2018 All-Star Game in Washington D.C. at cardinals.com/vote. #VoteSTL

Monday, June 11, 2018 — Cardinals vs. San Diego Padres (7:15 p.m.)

Gates open at 5:45 p.m.

Teachers Night: Kick off summer break at Busch Stadium for Teachers Night! With the purchase of a special Theme Ticket, fans will receive an exclusive teachers-themed Cardinals t-shirt. To purchase tickets, visit cardinals.com/teachersnight. #CardsTheme

Tuesday, June 12, 2018 — Cardinals vs. San Diego Padres (7:15 p.m.)

Gates open at 5:45 p.m.

Y98’s Courtney & Company Night:Join your favorite morning show ladies and gents for happy hour at Courtney and Company Night. For just $20, you’ll receive a Courtney and Company t-shirt, one drink voucher and a ticket to the game. Courtney, Jen, Kevin, Tim and Lance will be hanging out for happy hour with fans. To purchase tickets, visit cardinals.com/Y98. #CardsTheme

Bowmaniacs: Matt Bowman will host a group from KEEN St. Louis for tonight’s game as part of his Bowmaniacs player ticket program.

Cardinals Care Stadium Auction:Auction tables will be located at Gates 1 and 3, inside the Cardinals Club, UMB Champions Club and Redbird Club for fans and collectors to obtain specialty Cardinals items while helping support the programs that Cardinals Care provides to youth in the community. #CardsCare

Wednesday, June 13, 2018 — Cardinals vs. San Diego Padres (7:15 p.m.)

Gates open at 5:15 p.m.

Star Wars Night: Join us for Star Wars Night at the ballpark where Busch Stadium will be transformed with Star Wars-themed sights and sounds. Fans who purchased the special Star Wars Theme Ticket will receive a one-of-a-kind Star Wars-themed Cardinals jersey featuring birds on a light saber. A portion of the proceeds from each ticket sold will be donated to Stand Up 2 Cancer. Star Wars characters will be roaming throughout the ballpark for photo opportunities and a Star Wars truck will be displayed in Ford Plaza! Star Wars Theme Tickets are sold out. For more information, visit cardinals.com/starwars. #CardsTheme

Wainwright’s Winners: Adam Wainwright will host a group from Angels’ Arms for tonight’s game as part of his Wainwright’s Winners player ticket program.

Hailey Dawson Ceremonial First Pitch: Hailey Dawson, an 8-year-old girl born with Poland Syndrome, will throw out a ceremonial first pitch. Hailey was born without a right pectoral muscle and is missing the three middle fingers on her right hand. As a result, Hailey utilizes a robotic hand developed by the UNLV Engineering Department. Hailey, a Las Vegas resident, is on a quest to throw a first pitch for all 30 MLB teams. The club will be Hailey’s 14th different team in addition to throwing out a first pitch at Game 4 of the 2017 World Series.

Friday, June 15, 2018 — Cardinals vs. Chicago Cubs (7:15 p.m.)

MLB Network Showcase National Broadcast (out-of-market only)

Gates open at 5:15 p.m.

Cardinals en Español: Tonight’s game will be broadcast over the radio in Spanish by Polo Ascencio and Bengie Molina. The Spanish broadcast will air locally on WIJR 880 AM and be streamed via cardinals.com & the MLB.com At Bat mobile app. #STLCardenales

Artifact Spotlight: Before every Friday home game, the Cardinals Museum highlights artifacts in the collection not currently on display during a pregame presentation inside the Museum at 3:00 & 3:30. Today’s featured item relates to Cardinals in the movies. To purchase museum tickets, visit cardinals.com/museum.#CardsMuseum

Flashback Friday: Before every Friday home game at 4:00 p.m., the Cardinals Museum will host a presentation about Cardinals history or a museum-related topic from one of the Museum’s staff members, a former player or a visiting author. Today’s presentation will be hosted by Museum Curator, Paula Homan, about the origin and evolution of Cardinals logos. To purchase museum tickets, visit cardinals.com/museum. #CardsMuseum

Cardinals Care Stadium Auction:Auction tables will be located inside the Cardinals Club, UMB Champions Club and Redbird Club for fans and collectors to obtain specialty Cardinals items while helping support the programs that Cardinals Care provides to youth in the community. #CardsCare

MLBPAA Auction: The MLB Players Alumni Association will conduct a silent auction by Gates 1 and 3 through the fifth inning. All proceeds will benefit Cardinals Care and the MLBPAA.

Saturday, June 16, 2018 — Cardinals vs. Chicago Cubs (7:15 p.m.)

FOX Baseball Night in America National Broadcast

Gates open at 5:15 p.m.

Saturday Signings at the Museum: Former Cardinals pitcher Josh Kinney will sign autographs at the Cardinals Museum from 3:00-5:00 p.m. Visit cardinals.com/museum for more information.

Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Competition: Nathan’s Famous will host a local regional qualifier for their Fourth of July International Hot Dog-Eating Contest at 6:00 p.m. in the Ford Plaza. The top male and female finishers in this event will qualify for a seat at the Nathan’s Famous Fourth of July International Hot Dog Eating Contest in Coney Island, Brooklyn where they will face reigning champion Joey Chestnut and Miki Sudo.

Cardinals en Español: Today’s game will be broadcast over the radio in Spanish by Polo Ascencio and Bengie Molina. The Spanish broadcast will air locally on WIJR 880 AM and be streamed via cardinals.com & the MLB.com At Bat mobile app. #STLCardenales

MLBPAA Auction: The MLB Players Alumni Association will conduct a silent auction by Gate 1, Gate 3 and inside the Cardinals Club through the fifth inning. All proceeds will benefit Cardinals Care and the MLBPAA.

Cardinals en Español: Today’s game will be broadcast over the radio in Spanish by Polo Ascencio and Bengie Molina. The Spanish broadcast will air locally on WIJR 880 AM and be streamed via cardinals.com & the MLB.com At Bat mobile app. #STLCardenales

MLBPAA Auction: The MLB Players Alumni Association will conduct a silent auction by Gate 1, Gate 3 and inside the Cardinals Club through the fifth inning. All proceeds will benefit Cardinals Care and the MLBPAA.